TITLE: JJ Redick Says Shared Trash-Talking Edge Fuels Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves
SLUG: jj-redick-says-trash-talking-bonds-doncic-and-reaves
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves have quickly built on-court chemistry by tapping into the same competitive streak — an eagerness to talk trash.
“I think what they realized early in the preseason … they both enjoy talking trash a lot,” Redick said, adding that the shared habit has helped the two “create a little bit of chemistry with each other just by being their natural selves.”
With LeBron James sidelined at the start of the 2025-26 campaign, Doncic and Reaves have formed the Lakers’ primary backcourt through the first eight games. Doncic has steered the offense while Reaves, operating mostly off the ball, is scoring from all three levels and reaching the free-throw line at one of the league’s top rates.
Redick called the partnership “in a really healthy place.” Both players, he noted, willingly defer when the other catches fire — a dynamic displayed after Reaves poured in 51 points against the Sacramento Kings, a night after Doncic narrowly missed his own 50-point outing.
Questions about pairing two ball-dominant guards have largely faded as the Lakers’ offense continues to flourish. Reaves has even suggested Doncic could average 40 points for the season, underscoring the confidence within the duo.
The Lakers next look to extend their early success as the regular season continues.
Source: Lakers Nation
